Locate oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars.

Ohio oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars for hire:

Do I need a trucking permits? Legal load limits.

Ohio maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required:

Length: The Ohio DOT has no maximum length set that we know of. Trailer length is set at a maximum length of 53 feet. If the shipment is over 90′ in length (combined) 1 pilot car (escort vehicle) is required.Height: 13 feet 6 inches is the maximum allowed shipping height as per Ohio DOT without a permit.Width: 8 feet 6 inches is the maximum width allowed to travel on Ohio roads.Weight: 80,000 pounds maximum weight (GVW) 20,000 pounds on any single axle, 34,000 pounds on dual axles, 48,000 pounds on tridum axles.Overhang: 53 feet is the maximum length. Front overhang is an issue that has not been clearly addressed by ONotes: Definitions of weights: Overall Spacing: Distance center to center, to the nearest foot between extreme front and rear-most axles of vehicle or combination of vehicles, or any internal axle grouping. Spacing: Distance center to center, to the nearest foot, to an adjacent axle.

Some divisible loads may be permitted to travel is less than 150 miles. Transporting metal coils such as aluminum, copper, steel have different laws, basic info is 3 (or fewer) coils are deemed “nondivisible loads” (as per OH NonDivisible and per Ohio 5501:2-1-01 (Q).

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in OH:

Length: Anything over 90′ will require a pilot car/escort vehicle.Width: 14′ is the maximum width considered on routine issued permits. Routing of course is the restricting factor so if you may qualify for up to (our approximation) 16′ routinely depending on your desired route.Height: 14′ 6″ in the maximum for routinely issued permits. Of course routing is the qualifier. If your shipment is 14′ 6″ or over you will be required to have a high pole escort.Weight:Single axle: 29,000 lbs. Tandem axles: 36,000 lbs if axle spacing is a minimum of 4′ 1″ and up to a whopping 50,000 lbs if your axle spacings are more than the 4′ 1″ but not more than 16′. Tridem axles: 60,000 lbs maximum if your axle spacing is less than 4′ and 53,000 lbs if your axle spacing is more than 4′ but less than 16′. Quadem: 60,000 (as long as GVW is not over 120,000 lbs). 5 axles (single-tandem-tridem): 29,000 lbs – 46,000 lbs – 46,000 lbs = 121,000 lbs maximum total per group of axles. However; in order to do this you have to have a minimum of a 51′ outer bridge and a 36′ inner bridge in order to heavy haul on a 5 axle setup. 6 axles: (single-tandem-tridum); 29,000 lbs, 46,000 lbs, 53,000 lbs = 128,000 lbs total maximum per group of axles. 7 axles: (single-tridum-tridum); 29,000 lbs – 53,000 lbs – 53,000 lbs = 135,000 lbs total maximum weight allowed. 8 axles: (single-tandem-tandem-tridum); 29,000 lbs – 46,000 lbs -46,000 lbs – 53,000 = 174,000 lbs maximum for this kind of group setup.Overhang: We have not located any information on routinely permitted overhang. So, we have to assume that as long as you do not want to overhang more than 1/3 of the overall length of the item being shipped you can probably get a routine permit. When you wish to exceed this basic rule (more than 1/3 overhang) you create a potentially dangerous situation. If you have any knowledge on routine overhang in Ohio please share it with others below.

Notes: As long as the GVW is not over 120,000 lbs you can use a tridem or quadem setup but you are required to have the minimum of 4′ 1″ spacing in your axles. You can go up to 132,000 lbs on a 7, 8 or 9 axle setup for your steering configuration plus 2 tridem or quadem axle groups. Please see more in superloads section below.

Notes: Definitions of weights: Overall Spacing: Distance center to center, to the nearest foot between extreme front and rear-most axles of vehicle or combination of vehicles, or any internal axle grouping. Spacing: Distance center to center, to the nearest foot, to an adjacent axle.

Ohio superloads.

Requirements for extra-heavy or over-dimensional (superloads) in OH:

Length: Depending on your route you probably will not have any problems with length in Ohio unless you are over 160′ overall. Ohio DOT has no set limitations on length so you may not even qualify as a supleroad.Width: Again depending on the route you intend on taking unless you are over 18′ in width you may not qualify as a superload by the Ohio DOT. While they are not too keen on wideload shipments they tend to look at these on a case by case basis which is all dependent on your routing. In some areas you 16′ may qualify you as routine. If your shipment is over 18′ in width you will be classified as a superload. We welcome your comments below.
Height: If you are over 14′ 6″ in the state of Ohio you will be required to have a high pole escort (pilot car) in front of you the entire route. Ohio DOT may require that you notify any/all utility companies that manage obstructions on your route before you are permitted to move. It’s all about your routing in Ohio as we are sure you are learning however, Ohio DOT is very knowledgeable and you have to give them credit for that. We feel they should be a little more lenient on height issues or have published routes for routine permits but maybe they have future plans.Weight: For superload configurations that are in excess of 120,000 lbs gross you will most likely be required to reduce your configuration by using a jeep. Your overall minimum axle spacings will need to be no less than 65′ with the inner bridge no less than 51′. See “routine trucking permits” above for more information about required axle group spacings as your groups need a distance of no less than 4′ 1″ between each.Overhang: Use the rule of 1/3. Read more above in “routine trucking permits”

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions:

Basic travel times:
The basic rule of one half hour before sunrise and one half hour after sunset applies (example; travel start time is at 1/2 hour before sunset on approved days). Ohio DOT regulations travel times are complicated due to population/traffic density consideration. ALWAYS REFER TO YOUR PHYSICAL PERMIT BEFORE COMMENCING MOVEMENT. If your shipment is over 12′ in width you are NOT allowed to travel in the list of counties and within a 25 mile radius of the cities listed below between the hours of 6:30 AM until 9 AM and from 4:30 AM until 6 PM Monday thru Friday and on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays you may not travel after 3 PM during the days between April 1st until November the 30th.

Holiday movement:
You are permitted to travel on the following holidays with the above rules in mind; Columbus day, George Washington’s birthday, Martin Luther King day and Veterans day. You are prohibited from traveling on the following holidays; New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. The Ohio DOT permit offices are closed on all of these days.

When pilot cars of escort vehicles are required.

Heavy haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanied by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

14 feet and 10 inches and over requires 1 pilot car equipped with a height pole and 1 rear chase.

Some routes may be required to be accompanied by 1 police escort.

Length: 1 pilot car/escort vehicle is required in the overall length of your shipment is in excess of 90 feet in length.Width: 1 pilot car/ escort vehicle is required for shipments in excess of 13′ wide. If on a 2 lane road the pilot car needs to be in the lead position and on 4 lane roads the rear chase position is required. If the width is greater than 14′ 6″ wide then you are required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle.Height: If the height of you shipment is in excess of 14′ 6″ in height you are required to have 1 front/lead pilot car/escort vehicle with a height pole. If the shipment is in excess of 14′ 10″ in height you are required to have 1 front pilot car/escort vehicle equipped with a high pole and 1 rear chase pilot car/escort vehicle displaying a “OVERSIZE LOAD” banner. See banner/sign specifications and requirements below in “pilot car certifications & requirements” section.Weight: There are no immediate pilot car or escort vehicle requirements for shipments that are overweight. As long as the shipment is able to maintain the minimum speed limit requirements escort is necessary. This may not be applicable towards superloads which is on case by case basis.Overhang: Overhang, if excessive is reviewed on a case by case basis. If your shipment is overhanging by less than 1/3 of it’s length (1/3 meaning the overall measurement of only the item being shipped) you may be required to use a flag or amber light on the rear as long as the overall length of your shipment is not excessive and overhang is not either, ie; no more than 10′ (this is only a assumption and you must clarify your requirements with the Ohio DOT).Note: If you are required to have only 1 pilot car/escort because your shipment is only 13′ wide but your shipment requires you to have 1 pilot car/escort because you are over 90′ in length you are considered a “combination” shipment and will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle.

Pilot car certifications & requirements.

Pilot car and escort vehicles operating in the state of Ohio are mandated by the Ohio DOT to have an amber light mounted on the roof of the vehicle. The amber light must strobe or flash and be clearly visible from a 360 degree angle from a distance of no less than 500′. The vehicle is required to have a single roof mounted sign or a front/rear sign (depending on if operating as a lead or chase vehicle) that is no less than 5′ in length and 12′ in height with letters no less than 8″ in height that are a minimum 1″ in thickness. The sign must be yellow in color with black lettering and state the nature of the load being shipping, either “OVERSIZE LOAD” OR “WIDELOAD”. All pilot car or escort vehicles are required to be equipped with a CB radio or powerful 2-way communication device that enables them to be in constant communication with all parties working in the movement. Pilot car vehicles are required to have a hand held paddle sign that states the words “STOP on one side and “SLOW” on the other is case traffic needs to be controlled.

Note: It is only our professional opinion that pilot cars also have a minimum of the additional items but not required: 2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C. A red safety colored flag with a handle no less than 18″ square, 3 reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, 8 burning road flares, 2 OVERSIZE LOAD banners (yellow with black lettering) and a safety colored (red, orange, yellow or lime green) vest, jacket or shirt (used while directing traffic).

Shipment, truck and trailer markings.

A strobing or flashing amber light that is visible from 360 degrees from a distance of no less than 500 feet is required to placed on the highest point of the cab of the tractor trailer. Signs/banners that indicate the nature of the shipment, “OVERSIZE LOAD” OR “WIDELOAD” are required to be placed at the overall front and rear of the shipment. These banners must be yellow in color with black lettering and not less than 7′ in width and 18″ in height. Letters must be a minimum of 10″ in height with a 1 1/2″ line thickness. Safety flags must be mounted at the 4 outer most corners of the overall shipment and be no less than 18″ in length in either direction and be safety red or orange in color. If the shipment protrudes in any direction like overhang additional flags are required. You may be required to place flashing or strobing amber lights on any protrusions as well.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Ohio State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

2018 Easy – Federal Bridge Formula weights explanation.

Heavy-haul truck drivers should know exactly how to calculate the Federal Bridge Formula. Below is a very simple explanation to ensure compliance.

Explaining the maximum weight any combined set of axles on a truck and trailer can carry to cross a bridge on the Interstate highway system. The following Federal bridge formula is used for calculating acceptable weights:

W=500 [ LN/N-1 + 12N + 36]

W= the overall gross weight on any group of two or more consecutive axles the the nearest 500 pounds.

L= the distance in feet between the outer axles of any group of two or more consecutive axles.

N= the number of axles in the group that are under consideration.

How do I determine Bridge Formula?

THIS IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE: Bridge formula is 30 times the wheelbase* in centimeters plus 18,000 kg.

*Wheelbase in the above Bridge Formula calculation refers to the maximum axles span (center of the first axle to the center of the last axle of any axle group) in a heavy commercial vehicle.

Axle spacing is another consideration that must be taken into account when looking at the Federal weight compliance laws. In order to properly protect our bridges the number and the spacing of truck and trailer axles carrying the shipment must be calculated. So a bridge weight formula applies when the gross weight on 2 or more consecutive axles exceeds the limitations on the formula, except that the 2 consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry a gross weight load of 34,000 pounds each if the overall distance between the 1st and last axle is over a 36 feet minimum.

Exceptions to the Bridge Weight Formula:

There are exceptions. Federal law does include an exception to the Federal Bridge Formula and the bridge table. 2 consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry 34,000 pounds each IF the overall distance between the first axle and last axles of these tandems is 36 feet or greater. For example: a 5 axle tractor semi trailer combination may carry 34,000 pounds of weight both on the tractor tandem (axles 2 and 3) and the trailer tandem (axles 4 and 5), provided the axles 2 and 5 are spaced at least 36 feet from each other. Without this exception the bridge formula would allow for actual weight of only 66,000 pounds to 67,000 pounds on tandems spaced 36 feet to 38 feet apart. (References: U. S. Department of Transportation – Federal Highway Administration “Federal Bridge Formula Weights“)

Note: In addition to the above formula weights Federal law says that a single axle is limited to a maximum of no greater than 20,000 pounds and that axles that are closer than 96 inches from each other are limited to a maximum weight of 34,000 pounds. Also that gross vehicle weight be less than 80,000 pounds.

Federal law (23 U.S.C. 127) does include an exception to the Federal Bridge Formula and the Bridge Table—two consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry 34,000 lbs. pounds each if the overall distance between the first and last axles of the tandem axles is 36 feet or more. For example; a five-axle tractor and semitrailer combination may carry 34,000 lbs. pounds both on the tractor tandem (axles 2 and 3) and the trailer tandem (axles 4 and 5), if axles number 2 and 5 are spaced at least 36 feet apart. Without this exception the Federal Bridge Formula would allow an actual weight of only 66,000 pounds up to 67,500 pounds on tandems spaced 36 to 38 feet apart.

Legal load limits.

Length: Many measurements for semitrailers by California DOT seem very short because they’re referring to the distance from the king-pin to the rear axle. Also certain routes have restrictions on trailer sizes so if you are at any point confused please call the DOT and check California state shipping regulations before traveling. First of all for passenger related vehicles the maximum is 45′ in length overall on approved routes. Semi-trailers: for a single axle semitrailer the maximum length of the trailer allowed is 53′ overall as long as it has two axles. If it has only one axle the maximum trailer length is 38′ overall. The maximum overall legal combination length is 65′ for the heavy haul and oversize sector of the trucking industry however there are additional laws for trucks pulling doubles or triples (dry box) that allows them to max out at 75 feet overall. California also has classifications such as a “STAA” vehicle. You can have a look at green truck dimensions at: Truck Map (.pdf) for further clarification.Width: 8′ 6″ is the maximum with allowed to travel on any road in the state of California.Height: 14′ in the maximum legal height allowed to travel in the state of California.Weight: 80,000 lbs GVW with no more than 12,500 on a steer axle, 20,000 pounds maximum weight on any single axle, 34,000 pounds maximum on tandem axles and on tridem axle configurations depending on axle spread such as from 10 feet to 10 feet 2 inches (10’2″) tridum is legal at 40,000 pounds. If you feel you are getting close to the legal limits see the section below on “routine trucking permits”.Overhang: You are allowed 3 feet of front overhang (4 feet for fixed trailers ie; car haulers). Rear overhang is 6′ in most areas but can for sure be no more than 1/3 of the total item being shipped. Be sure to clarify the amount with the California DOT office you are traveling in to make sure. Note: The comment below on vehicle shipping overhang. We welcome your comments below to help others in clarification of rear overhang.

Routine oversize and heavy haul trucking permits.

Oversize and heavy haul trucking permits that are routinely issued by California DOT:

Length: 135 feet in overall length is the maximum length on a routine oversize trucking permit that is issued. All others see “superload” info below or learn more about the California length limitations.Width: 15′ wide is the maximum width issued by a routine oversize trucking permit in California. All others see “superload” info below or learn more about the California width restrictions.Height: Under 17′ as anything over that height is required to have a route survey. If your route happened to be a well documented route you might be able to get away without having to do the route survey but its not likely. Some shipments may be forced to use a lowboy, double drop or otherwise trailer that is purposely lower to the pavement.Weight: 250,000 pounds maximum (Class C if over or see super loads). Steer axles 12,500 pounds. Single axle; 20,000 pounds, 46,000 pounds on tandem axles, 60,000 pounds on tridum axles. Quadem axles are not recognized for over weight shipments. Depends upon the axle spacings and tire size. Trunnion: 60,000 pounds. Gross Weights: 5 axles is 112,000 pounds; 6 axles – 117,450; 7 axles 158,000 pounds, 8 axles 181,300 pounds (subject to inspection). The weights depend upon the number of tires combined with the overall distance between each of the axles. Spacings on axles are tricky in this state. The California DOT permits office will consider a number or factors but primarily bridges. If weights are excessive and trailer capabilities are even close to short of maxing out forget it. Pavement structural and stress testing and results will govern your overall capabilities. Learn more details on California heavy haul weight restrictions.Overhang: Overhang in the state of California is very detailed depending on amount of front or rear overhang and the route (color; see maps link above). Some shipments may be forced to be loaded onto stretch trailers. See the above folder on left titled “California overhang in depth” for more information.Notes: The distance between axles is measured to the nearest whole foot. When a portion is six inches you round up to to the nearest foot ie: 8 feet and 6 inches is documented as 9 feet.

Overhang from the front of trailer.
Heavy haul and oversize loads are permitted to protrude from the front of the trailer any safe distance provided it does not interfere with the safe operation or the truck and trailer. If the trailer is designed to move shipments above the cab such as cars the maximum overhang allowed is 4 feet. Overhang from combination trailers is restricted to 3 feet.

Overhang from the rear of trailer.
Any shipment loaded onto a trailer or semitrailer shall not extend beyond the rear past the last point of support for a greater distance than that “equal to two-thirds of the length of the wheelbase. The wheelbase of a semitrailer shall be considered as the distance between the rearmost axle of the towing vehicle and the rearmost axle of the semitrailer.”

Lights and flags for shipments that have rear overhang.Whenever overhang projects out more than 4 feet or more (measured from the tail lamp lens on trailer) you will be required to affix a red or florescent orange flag a minimum of 18 inches square to the extreme projection. If the projection is greater than 2 feet in width you will be required to use 2 warning flags. On shipments that travel after sunset in addition to the flags you are required to use red bulbs (not rated over 6 candle power) that are clearly visible from a minimum distance of 500 feet from both the sides and rear of the shipments extremities.

Exemptions for poles, timber, pipes, etc.
For shipments such as poles, timber (trees), pipes and similar items a shipment can be transported as long as it is within the limitations as described in CVC length chapter. However, any shipment vehicle length limitations of the CVC length chapter do not apply when only poles, timbers, pipes, integral structural materials, or single unit component parts such as missile components, aircraft assemblies, drilling equipment, and tanks not exceeding 80 feet in length are being transported upon any of the following: a pole or pipe trailer, public utility companies or agencies supplying electricity, cable/telephone to include public contractors working directly for the state entity. There are a few exceptions: 1. The combination meets the limitations described above in the “overhang from rear of vehicle” referring to two thirds (2/3) of the wheelbase distance). 2. Transportation is local and between a place designated as a “storage yard” and the job locations may not be restricted under these limitations.

Forklifts protruding from trailers.A forklift being transported from the rear of any trailer is considered overhang and subject to the limitations described above in “overhang from the rear of trailer” and must meet the two thirds (2/3) measurement restrictions. For length requirements, see the California laws referring to maximum lengths.

Projections from the side of trailers.Any shipment that protrudes from either side of the trailer in excess of 4 inches to a maximum of 2 feet must place red or orange florescent safety flags (minimum of 18 inches square) on each side of the rear end of the shipment if it is in excess of 2 feet in width. If the shipment is no greater than 4 inches (up to 2 feet) warning flags must be placed on all 4 extreme corners of the shipment.

Boat shipping boom, masts, cranes, shovels and drilling equipment restrictions.
Transporting booms, masts, cranes, shovels or drilling equipment is permitted provided it meets the two thirds (2/3) provisions described above in “overhang from rear of trailer”. Any protrusions from the trailer must be secured to prevent and bending or movement. Front projections that may extend further than the front axle must be a minimum of 7 feet above the pavement and must not restrict the vision of the truck driver.

Container shipping and overhang limitations.
For container shipping companies that have intermodal capabilities whether shipping within or out of the state of California must ensure that all lower corners are securely fastened to the trailer. On trailers that are not designed as “intermodal” trailers you are not permitted to overhang from the front or rear of your trailer and all 4 corners must rest securely upon your trailer however, IF the trailers are completely empty overhang is permitted provided it meets all other overhang restrictions and does not protrude more than 5 feet from the front or rear of the trailer. Also keep in mind the state of California conforms to the regulations defined in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 49, Part 393, Section 126 (c) and (d)as well as California state law defined in the California Code of Regulations (CCR): Title 13, Div 2, Chap 7, Article 1, Section 1300 (b). If you intend on operating as a container shipper it is strongly advised you clearly understand the limitations set in both federal and state laws.

Draw bars or load extensions.
Extension devices or draw bars up to 18 inches in length are not included in measuring the length of a tractor or trailer individually but are included in measuring a shipments overall length. If you are simply towing a small trailer, boat, car or a camper see the California sections on the “Auto, Boat, & Camper Transporters Exemptions.”

Safety devices to ensure trailer attachments.Any safety devices that are used to insure trailer is secured to the towing vehicle are permitted provided they are no longer than 10 inches in length.

California superload information.

Length: If you are over 135′ in length overall you are more than likely going to be classified as a superload in California.Width: Depending out routing and the number of lanes available on the route but 15′ in some areas would qualify you. Over 17′ in width and you will more than likely be categorized as a superload.Height: Anything over 18 feet tall will require a route survey. If 18′ feet or over in height you more than likely will be classified as a superload. For detailed information on California maximum height limitations check out the state height limitations and routes.Weight: Of course heavy haul weights are a huge issue. Anytime your overall GVW is over 80,000 pounds or you exceed any of the above (see routine permits) limitations on length, width or height depending on the route you desire you are subject to be classified as a superload.Overhang: California is NOT going to let you break the rule of 1/3 (no more than 1/3 of overall length can overhang) and they shouldn’t in our opinion from a general view point. Get your proposed routing together and talk to them and see what you come up with would be our suggestion. 15′ possibly routine. 20′ and you are superload for sure we’d guess.Notes: Here are some maps for superloads (California calls them “Extralegal” – maybe Arnie came up with that?)that can save you some serious money when you need the information. If you need to hire an expert to take care of your California shipping needs or even consult you we are happy to assist you. Most of the time we can handle your problem over the phone for a reasonable fee but when you need someone in the field we are qualified to assist you. See consultation.

Permitted travel times & restrictions.

California permitted travel times and restrictions for heavy haul and oversize loads:

Let’s start by clarification of daylight hours; the basic rule is 1/2 hour before sunrise until 1/2 hour after sunset. If you do not require a pilot car/escort vehicle and are not overweight (green chart – over 52,000 lbs. on tandem axles or higher see charts in “superloads” section above) or don’t have anything out of the ordinary going on your travel times are 7 days a week 24 hours a day if you request to do so when you order your permits. The travel times restrictions are loaded so figure this as a rule of thumb (your permit will state your allowed travel times when issued) since this is just for you to get an estimate:

No travel from 3 PM until 6 PM in the same areas with a 1 hour variance.

Your physical permit will state your exact allowed travel times when you get it issued and they will be real close to the above examples. There are simply too many variable to list.Holiday travel: There is no holiday travel time permitted in California unless you have a special arrangement with Caltrans. The following holidays are observed as no travel days by California state shipping regulations: New Years day, Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, George Washington’s birthday, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. If the holiday is in a Friday or a Monday there is no travel permitted during Saturday or Sunday. Never travel without first verifying approval first which will be documented clearly on your permit.

When pilot cars or escorts are required.

Shipments requiring escort vehicles or pilot cars:

Length: If over 100′ in length in the city of Los Angles or Los Angeles county you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car/escort. This may be required in other areas as well. If over 120 feet and no longer than 135 feet in length on some routes you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle. If over 135′ in length you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear escort on any road in the state.Width: If your shipment is over 12′ wide the “general rule” is you will be required to have 1 front pilot car on 2 lane roads or 1 rear escort on 4 lane roads however note 2 pilot cars are required on some routes. Any shipment in excess of 12 feet should figure on a minimum of 2 pilot cars or escort vehicles.Height: Once you hit the 18 feet mark in height everything changes. You’ll be required to have a height pole pilot car/escort vehicle and before you even apply for your permit you have to conduct a route survey with the pole set at a minimum of 18 feet and 3 inches (18’3″) as well as a utility company clearance letter. Anything over this height will be required to notify all utility companies in advance of transport.Weight: There is little mention of weight restrictions and pilot cars. As with many states if the shipment is able to maintain the minimum required speed limits then a pilot car or escort vehicle may not be required. If your shipment is not able to meet the minimum speed requirements then you will more than likely be required to have at minimum 1 front and 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle and in some cases may even be required to have a police escort. This is based entirely on your proposed route, the weight of the heavy haul shipment and ultimately the California heavy haul permit department.Overhang: It all depends on the route. Just as a basic rule to calculate off of (not legally binding) if you have less than 15′ of rear overhang you are probably not going to be required to have a pilot car. If you are dealing with a shipment that has 20′ – 25′ of overhang then yes you are going to be required to have at least 1 pilot car/escort vehicle – if overhang is in the front then lead and if off of rear chase. If you have both front and rear overhang that is in excess (30′ front and 25′ rear) count on being required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle.Notes: Keep in mind these are basic rules for oversize and heavy haul trucking in California. California state shipping regulations continuously change due to construction, project completions and policy modifications. Always refer to your oversize trucking permit before traveling.

Pilot car and escort vehicle certifications.

Pilot car (escort vehicles) are required to have a minimum of one flashing or strobing amber light mounted at the highest point if the vehicle. Light must be visible from 360 degrees from a distance of no less than 500′ and be completely covered when not tending a shipment. Pilot car vehicles must be equipped with a CB radio or a 2 way communication device with a range of no less than 15 miles and be in constant communication with all parties related to the shipment at all times while in transit. Vehicle is required to have identification signs on each side of the vehicle stating the company name, address and contact telephone number. Vehicle must be equipped with the appropriate banner/sign stating ‘OVERSIZE”, with “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDELOAD” and “LONG LOAD” being used when appropriate that is a minimum of 5’ in width and 10″ in height with black lettering no less than 1 5/8″ letter thickness and a yellow background mounted no less than 48″ from the pavement surface. If not tending a shipment this sign must be fully covered or removed. Vehicle must have one safety colored red flag mounted on each side of the vehicle with a minimum distance of 16″ in either direction. Vehicles must also be equipped with a hand held sign with the words “stop” on one side and “slow on the other, a emergency colored vest/shirt/jacket with reflective stripe and a red emergency flag of no less than 24” in either direction.Note: Inour professional opinion all pilot cars and escort vehicle operators have items in addition to the above: 2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C, 3 reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, 8 burning road flares, 2 OVERSIZE LOAD banners (yellow with black lettering) and a hard hat. Also when working in California you want to make sure you have the pilot car maps.

Shipment, truck and trailer flags, lights and markings.

Truck, trailer and shipment required signs, banners and flags:

All trucking companies that are hauling oversize and overweight shipments must have a amber colored strobing or flashing light affixed to the top of the tractor trailer cab that is visible 360 degrees from a minimum distance of 500′. Signs that state the exact nature of the shipment; “WIDELOAD”, “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “LONG LOAD”, “EXCESSIVE FRONT OVERHANG”, “EXCESSIVE REAR OVERHANG”. If the shipment is over 100′ overall then the “LONG LOAD” sigh shall be displayed and the “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign is to be displayed for lesser lengths and other oversize configurations. The other signs will need to be used when appropriate. When shipping ANYTHING in excess of 80′ in length, 102″ in width or more than 10′ of overhang you MUST have the appropriate sign on the front of the tractor trailer and on the rear of the trailer and/or rear of overall shipment. The signs must have lettering that is a minimum of 10″ in height with a minimum of 1 5/8″ letter thickness with lettering being black in color on a yellow background. All shipments that are in excess of the 102″ must also have safety colored red flags placed on all for corners of the shipment that are no less than 16″ in either direction. Overhang must be flagged as well. California law defines daylight time as 1/2 hour before sunrise and 1/2 hour after sunset which leaves you open for trouble on lighting which states that during the hours of darkness (we’ve got a 1/2 hour of lee-way time here) you must have 2 red lights on the side and rear (visible from a minimum of 500′) attached to the load or extremities. So, as soon as you pull out in the AM or if it gets close to dusk pull over and put on the red lights so you don’t find yourself in court trying to argue their error in defining “daylight hours” as it is a contradiction that our legal beagles caught while perusing their endless piles of regulations.

Heavy haul trucking and oversize load permit limitations.Maximum weight maximum weight: steering axle, 12,500 pounds. Single axle, 20,000 pounds. Tandem axle, 46,000 pounds. Try to maximal, 60,000 pounds. Trunnion axle, 10 feet wide 60,000 pounds. Quad axles are not recognize for heavy haul weights. Gross weight on five axles 112,500 pounds. Six axles hundred and 17,450 pounds. Seven and eight axles 158,000 pounds to 181,000 pounds which will be subject to inspection for heavy haul shipments. You may not move a heavy haul shipment on tandem axles that have more than a 8 foot spread. You may not move a heavy haul shipment on tridum axles that exceed a 10 foot spread.
Maximum length is 135 feet.
Maximum width is 15 feet.
Maximum height. Any shipment that is in excess of 17 feet tall must be accompanied by a routes survey with a high pole set at 3 inches above the load clearance height. All shipments that are over height must be on a lowboy, double drop or otherwise special lowered deck trailer. The state of California will permit shipments that are taller under special circumstances. The state of California has two different regions that use the state wide color route classification system that includes maps for shipments and pilot car company operators. You will need to check your permit for these route color classifications to determine if you need pilot cars or escorts. There are so many requirements we could not possibly list them here. For additional information please refer to the Caltrans links above.

Heavy haul and oversize trucking shipments that are classified as super loads.Any shipment that is in excess of 16 feet wide is a super load. Any shipment that exceeds the weights and dimensions listed above will more than likely be classified as a superload. In many circumstances certain routes will require that you file for a superload permit while other routes may not require you to file for a superload permit. For more information please refer to the above section on super loads as well as the Caltrans links. While performing our research we found it difficult to obtain information on California superload shipments as the term “superload” is not as widely used in this state as in other states.

Heavy haul and oversize load sign, flags and lights.Any shipment being moved in the state of California that is an excess of 8’6″ wide or 80 feet long or more than 10 feet of overhang will need to use the appropriate warning signs. Warning signs shall be posted on the front and the rear of the shipment and need to specify “long load” or “oversize load” or “wideload” or “excessive front overhang” or “excessive rear overhang”. The applicable warning sign must be used whenever you are transporting a shipment that falls under these dimensions. At times when a load is oversize and long as long as the load is not over 100 feet in length a “oversize load” sign could be used. However, if the shipment is in excess of 100 feet long then a “long load” sign will need to be used. All signs must display black letters on a yellow background. The letters must be 10 inches in height and a minimum of 1 5/8 inches wide. All signs will need to be mounted at least 18 inches above the surface of the road on both the front and the rear of the entire combination bowls signs and flags are required on vehicles that are over the legal width (8’6”). Flags are required whenever any shipment extends beyond 4 feet or more of the end of the trailer. For night movements you will need to use both safety lights and flags. To safety lights and two flags are required for night shipments that are in excess of 2 feet in width. These lights are to be no more than 6 candlepower lights that are clearly visible from both the side and the rear of the shipment for 500 feet if the shipment has front overhang you may be required to use to white lights visible from 500 feet in combination with the flags on the front of the load. As stated above the flags will need to be read or florescent orange in color and square with each side of the square a minimum of 16 inches. Any revolving amber lights on any towing unit must be completely covered when not transporting a permitted shipment.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements. Do I need one?

When a shipment is over 12 feet wide depending on the routes one or two pilot cars or escort vehicles are required. When a shipment is 120 feet to 135 feet long depending on the location and route one or more pilot cars or escorts may be required. If the shipment is over 100 feet and linked in Los Angeles County or in the city of Los Angeles you will be required to have one front and one rear pilot car or escort vehicle. Any shipment that is in excess of 18 feet or more and height will require a utility clearance and a routes survey done by a pilot car or escort vehicle equipped with a high pole. For shipments that have 30 feet or more of front overhang one pilot car will be required in for shipments with 25 feet of overhang beyond the rear of the trailer may require one or more pilot cars or escort vehicles. Be sure to use the above links to print a Caltrans route classification map to determine if you are moving on a red, blue, green, yellow or brown route for escort/pilot requirements. Pilot car requirements in the state of California required by Caltrans on oversize and some heavy haul shipments are extremely complicated. At times on some routes with rear overhang that is over 25 feet in some areas they may require two rear pilot car or escort vehicles while on others one. Some route colors only allow a single pilot car or escort vehicles to operate on them. So be 100% certain you have done your homework when it comes to operating a pilot car or escort vehicle in the state of California. As a final notation pilot cars and escort vehicles are to remain to the right hand side of the centerline of the roadway at all times. Failure to comply will result in a hefty fine.

Requirements for escort and pilot car vehicle operators.
All pilot cars and escort vehicles must be a minimum of 60 inches wide. All escort vehicles and pilot cars must display at least one red warning flag on each side of the vehicle. The flag will need to be a minimum of 16 inches and in the shape of a square. All flags need to be mounted so that they are visible from both the front and the rear of the vehicle. You must remove all flags when you are not operating in the capacity of a escort or pilot car driver. The vehicle must be equipped with a stop slow sign, at least one orange safety vest, shirt or jacket, 124 inch hand held warning flag that is square and a two-way communication radio. All escort vehicles and pilot cars are required to be equipped with a flashing amber warning light. Flashing amber warning lights will need to be visible from the front, rear and side of the pilot car or escort vehicle. All pilot cars and escort vehicles will need to display a company’s sign on the side of the vehicle and nice clean and legible lettering which include your contact information. All escort vehicles and pilot cars will need to display legible signs that state oversize load visible from the front and the rear. This sign will need to be above the pavement a minimum of 4 feet and be completely legible from 45° from either side when read from the front or the rear. All lettering must be a minimum of 6 inches tall on a yellow background and be black in color with a minimum thickness of 1 5/8 of an inch. All signs must be a minimum of 440 square inches. At no time is a stop slow sign to be used from the window of a moving vehicle. All warning lamps will need to be covered when the pilot car or escort vehicle is not working.

Travel times.The 24 hours a day seven days a week policy has been replaced with a 3 AM policy for movements during dark hours. When filing for permits be sure to request as much travel time as you wish as all they can do is modify it in accordance to their regulations. However if an escort or pilot car vehicle is required you will be subject to various curfews. If travel time is restricted note that sunrise means one half hour before the sun rises and sunset means up to one half hour after the sun sets. Shipments that are in excess of 12 feet in width are prohibited from traveling during the early morning hours and late afternoon hours in the greater San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco areas. Slow moving vehicle emblems must be displayed whenever a vehicle will be operated at speeds of less than 25 mph shipments that are 10 feet or more wide are not permitted to travel Monday through Friday during the following times in the following cities.

A California Highway Patrol is required when shipments in excess of 15 feet wide travel on two lane roads and up to 16 feet wide on yellow routes. Again depending on the size of your shipment and the desired route of travel there are all kinds of variances for travel times. There is even a subsection for what is called “variance loads” when a shipment is over 15 feet wide, 17 feet tall or over I hundred and 35 feet long or for hauling special equipment that exceeds the department standard method of weight classification which will need to be up proved by a special processing unit. Written route surveys are required under the circumstances from the applicant however the California Highway Patrol in coordination with the district traffic manager will determine the required hours of travel. If you are required to have an inspection performed by the permit office inspectors you can reach the vehicle inspectors at one of the following numbers: Southern California: 909-223-8860. Central California: 916-215-7937. Northern, CA 530-941-0121. Inspections usually require a minimum of 20 days before they are performed. If you need to speak to a headquarters equipment engineer you can call 916-653-4385.

General contact information for heavy haul and oversize trucking permits.For service north of the Kern County or San Luis Obispo County lines the general phone number is 916-322-1297.
For service South of the Kern County or San Luis Obispo County lines the general phone number is 909-383-4637.
You can also contact them by email: northoversize-weightpermits@dot.ca.gov or southpermits@dot.ca.gov

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the California DOT (Caltrans) Permits office before commencing movement.